Roadway Reconfigurations

Purpose rr1.png

To reduce the speed of traffic, crossing distances for pedestrians, and/or provide additional space for other elements or uses of the roadway. 

Description

Reducing the number of lanes, the width of lanes (lane width reductions), repurposing lanes, or all three. Eliminating a travel or turn lane can make room for a bicycle lane, wider sidewalks, median islands, curb extensions, on street parking, transit lane, landscaping, or other uses.

Safety Objectives and Benefits

  • Increase space for pedestrian, bicycle, transit, or other infrastructure needs.
  • May reduce the number of potential conflict points.
  • May reduce vehicle speeds.
  • May reduce crossing distances by eliminating a lane or through provision of a pedestrian median island.
  • Before/after evaluations in Arlington showed an average 6% decrease in 85th percentile speeds after roadway reconfigurations were installed. 

Street Types and Context

Applicable Street Types

All streets except Controlled Access Highways.

Other Location Guidance 

  • Multi-lane roads may be eligible for lane reconfiguration.
  • Prioritize streets with key pedestrian and bicyclist routes.

Primary User Groups

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Key Implementation Considerations

  • For lane removals, an analysis must be performed to determine the operational and safety effects of lane reductions on all users.
  • Consider bus stop locations and operations in consultation with transit providers.
  • Consolidating travel lanes may increase congestion.
  • Minimum lane widths and building access must be maintained for emergency vehicle access and buses.
  • Lane width reduction is often implemented in part with the County's programmatic roadway repaving effort.
  • Public engagement required.

Expected Crash Reduction

47% for all crashes in suburban areas (Persaud et al. 2010).

29% for all crashes in urban areas (Pawlovich et al. 2006).

Cost

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Lane restriping projects vary in cost based on length and complexity. Additional infrastructure varies in cost.

Timeline 

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One to three or more years, depending on complexity.

References

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